Optimizing resource allocation: Cost-effectiveness of specified D-dimer cut-offs in cancer patients with suspected venous thromboembolism.

An accurate diagnosis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is crucial, given the potential for high mortality in undetected cases. Strategic D-dimer testing may aid in identifying low-risk patients, preventing overdiagnosis and reducing imaging costs. We conducted a retrospective, comparative analysis to assess the potential cost savings that could be achieved by adopting different approaches to determine the most effective D-dimer cut-off value in cancer patients with suspected VTE, compared to the commonly used rule-out cut-off level of 0.5 mg/L. The study included 526 patients (median age 65, IQR 55-75) with a confirmed cancer diagnosis who underwent D-dimer testing. Among these patients, the VTE prevalence was 29% (n = 152). Each diagnostic strategy's sensitivity, specificity, negative likelihood ratio (NLR), as well as positive likelihood ratio (PLR), and the proportion of patients exhibiting a negative D-dimer test result, were calculated. The diagnostic strategy that demonstrated the best balance between specificity, sensitivity, NLR, and PLR, utilized an inverse age-specific cut-off level for D-dimer [0.5 + (66-age) × 0.01 mg/L]. This method yielded a PLR of 2.9 at a very low NLR for the exclusion of VTE. We observed a significant cost reduction of 4.6% and 1.0% for PE and DVT, respectively. The utilization of an age-adjusted cut-off [patient's age × 0.01 mg/L] resulted in the highest cost savings, reaching 8.1% for PE and 3.4% for DVT. Using specified D-dimer cut-offs in the diagnosis of VTE could improve economics, considering the limited occurrence of confirmed cases among patients with suspected VTE.

From pixels to prognosis: Imaging biomarkers for discrimination and outcome prediction of pulmonary embolism : Original Research Article.

PURPOSE: Recent advancements in medical imaging have transformed diagnostic assessments, offering exciting possibilities for extracting biomarker-based information. This study aims to investigate the capabilities of a machine learning classifier that incorporates dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) radiomics. The primary focus is on discerning and predicting outcomes related to pulmonary embolism (PE). METHODS: The study included 131 participants who underwent pulmonary artery DECT angiography between January 2015 and March 2022. Among them, 104 patients received the final diagnosis of PE and 27 patients served as a control group. A total of 107 radiomic features were extracted for every case based on DECT imaging. The dataset was divided into training and test sets for model development and validation. Stepwise feature reduction identified the most relevant features, which were used to train a gradient-boosted tree model. Receiver operating characteristics analysis and Cox regression tests assessed the association of texture features with overall survival. RESULTS: The trained machine learning classifier achieved a classification accuracy of 0.94 for identifying patients with acute PE with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.91. Radiomics features could be valuable for predicting outcomes in patients with PE, demonstrating strong prognostic capabilities in survival prediction (c-index, 0.991 [0.979-1.00], p = 0.0001) with a median follow-up of 130 days (IQR, 38-720). Notably, the inclusion of clinical or DECT parameters did not enhance predictive performance. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our study underscores the promising potential of leveraging radiomics on DECT imaging for the identification of patients with acute PE and predicting their outcomes. This approach has the potential to improve clinical decision-making and patient management, offering efficiencies in time and resources by utilizing existing DECT imaging without the need for an additional scoring system.

Incident fractures of the distal radius: Dual-energy CT-derived metrics for opportunistic risk stratification.

BACKGROUND: Dual-energy CT (DECT)-derived bone mineral density (BMD) of the distal radius and other CT-derived metrics related to bone health have been suggested for opportunistic osteoporosis screening and risk evaluation for sustaining distal radius fractures (DRFs). METHODS: The distal radius of patients who underwent DECT between 01/2016 and 08/2021 was retrospectively analyzed. Cortical Hounsfield Unit (HU), trabecular HU, cortical thickness, and DECT-based BMD were acquired from a non-fractured, metaphyseal area in all examinations. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to determine the area under the curve (AUC) values for predicting DRFs based on DECT-derived BMD, HU values, and cortical thickness. Logistic regression models were then employed to assess the associations of these parameters with the occurrence of DRFs. RESULTS: In this study, 263 patients (median age: 52 years; interquartile range: 36-64; 132 women; 192 fractures) were included. ROC curve analysis revealed a higher area under the curve (AUC) value for DECT-derived BMD compared to cortical HU, trabecular HU, and cortical thickness (0.91 vs. 0.61, 0.64, and 0.69, respectively; p <.001). Logistic regression models confirmed the association between lower DECT-derived BMD and the occurrence of DRFs (Odds Ratio, 0.83; p <.001); however, no influence was observed for cortical HU, trabecular HU, or cortical thickness. CONCLUSIONS: DECT can be used to assess the BMD of the distal radius without dedicated equipment such as calibration phantoms to increase the detection rates of osteoporosis and stratify the individual risk to sustain DRFs. In contrast, assessing HU-based values and cortical thickness does not provide clinical benefit.

Indicators for Hospitalization in Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Uncover the Association Between D-dimer Levels, Thrombus Volume and Radiomics.

BACKGROUND: The advent of advanced computed tomography (CT) technology and the field of radiomics has opened up new avenues in diagnostic assessments. Increasingly, there is substantial evidence advocating for the incorporation of quantitative imaging biomarkers in the clinical decision-making process. This study aimed to examine the correlation between D-dimer levels and thrombus size in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) combining dual-energy CT (DECT) and radiomics and to investigate the diagnostic utility of a machine learning classifier based on dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) radiomics for identifying patients with a complicated course, defined as at least hospitalization at IMC. METHODS: The study was conducted including 136 participants who underwent pulmonary artery CT angiography from January 2015 to March 2022. Based on DECT imaging, 107 radiomic features were extracted for each patient using standardized image processing. After dividing the dataset into training and test sets, stepwise feature reduction based on reproducibility, variable importance and correlation analyses were performed to select the most relevant features; these were used to train and validate the gradient-boosted tree models.Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was utilized to evaluate the association between volumetric, laboratory data and adverse outcomes. RESULTS: In the central PE group, we observed a significant correlation between thrombus volumetrics and D-dimer levels (p = 0.0037), as well as between thrombus volumetrics and hospitalization at the Intermediate Care Unit (IMC) (p = 0.0001). In contrast, no statistically significant differences were identified in thrombus sizes between patients who experienced complications and those who had a favorable course (p = 0.3162). The trained machine learning classifier achieved an accuracy of 61% and 55% in identifying patients with a complicated course, as indicated by an area under the ROC curve of 0.63 and 0.58. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our findings indicate a positive correlation between D-dimer levels and central PE's pulmonary embolic burden. Thrombus volumetrics may serve as an indicator for complications and outcomes in acute PE patients. Thus, thrombus volumetrics, as opposed to D-dimers, could be an additional marker for evaluating embolic disease severity. Moreover, DECT-derived radiomic feature models show promise in identifying patients with a complicated course, such as hospitalization at IMC.

Diagnostic performance of modern computed tomography in cruciate ligament injury detection: A comprehensive study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of modern single and dual-energy computed tomography (CT) for assessing the integrity of the cruciate ligaments in patients that sustained acute trauma. METHODS: Patients who underwent single- or dual-energy CT followed by 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or knee joint arthroscopy between 01/2016 and 12/2022 were included in this retrospective, monocentric study. Three radiologists specialized in musculoskeletal imaging independently evaluated all CT images for the presence of injury to the cruciate ligaments. An MRI consensus reading of two experienced readers and arthroscopy provided the reference standard. Diagnostic accuracy parameters and area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) were the primary metrics for diagnostic performance. RESULTS: CT images of 204 patients (median age, 49 years; IQR 36 - 64; 113 males) were evaluated. Dual-energy CT yielded significantly higher diagnostic accuracy and AUC for the detection of injury to the anterior (94% [240/255] vs 75% [266/357] and 0.89 vs 0.66) and posterior cruciate ligaments (95% [243/255] vs 87% [311/357] and 0.90 vs 0.61) compared to single-energy CT (all parameters, p <.005). Diagnostic confidence and image quality were significantly higher in dual-energy CT compared to single-energy CT (all parameters, p <.005). CONCLUSIONS: Modern dual-energy CT is readily available and can serve as a screening tool for detecting or excluding cruciate ligament injuries in patients with acute trauma. Accurate diagnosis of cruciate ligament injuries is crucial to prevent adverse outcomes, including delayed treatment, chronic instability, or long-term functional limitations.

Intraoperative liver deformation and organ motion caused by ventilation, laparotomy, and pneumoperitoneum in a porcine model for image-guided liver surgery.

BACKGROUND: Image-guidance promises to make complex situations in liver interventions safer. Clinical success is limited by intraoperative organ motion due to ventilation and surgical manipulation. The aim was to assess influence of different ventilatory and operative states on liver motion in an experimental model. METHODS: Liver motion due to ventilation (expiration, middle, and full inspiration) and operative state (native, laparotomy, and pneumoperitoneum) was assessed in a live porcine model (n = 10). Computed tomography (CT)-scans were taken for each pig for each possible combination of factors. Liver motion was measured by the vectors between predefined landmarks along the hepatic vein tree between CT scans after image segmentation. RESULTS: Liver position changed significantly with ventilation. Peripheral regions of the liver showed significantly higher motion (maximal Euclidean motion 17.9 ± 2.7 mm) than central regions (maximal Euclidean motion 12.6 ± 2.1 mm, p < 0.001) across all operative states. The total average motion measured 11.6 ± 0.7 mm (p < 0.001). Between the operative states, the position of the liver changed the most from native state to pneumoperitoneum (14.6 ± 0.9 mm, p < 0.001). From native state to laparotomy comparatively, the displacement averaged 9.8 ± 1.2 mm (p < 0.001). With pneumoperitoneum, the breath-dependent liver motion was significantly reduced when compared to other modalities. Liver motion due to ventilation was 7.7 ± 0.6 mm during pneumoperitoneum, 13.9 ± 1.1 mm with laparotomy, and 13.5 ± 1.4 mm in the native state (p < 0.001 in all cases). CONCLUSIONS: Ventilation and application of pneumoperitoneum caused significant changes in liver position. Liver motion was reduced but clearly measurable during pneumoperitoneum. Intraoperative guidance/navigation systems should therefore account for ventilation and intraoperative changes of liver position and peripheral deformation.

Advanced biomedical imaging for accurate discrimination and prognostication of mediastinal masses.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the potential of radiomic features and dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT) parameters in differentiating between benign and malignant mediastinal masses and predicting patient outcomes. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we analysed data from 90 patients (38 females, mean age 51 ± 25 years) with confirmed mediastinal masses who underwent contrast-enhanced DECT. Attenuation, radiomic features and DECT-derived imaging parameters were evaluated by two experienced readers. We performed analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square statistic tests for data comparison. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Cox regression tests were used to differentiate between mediastinal masses. RESULTS: Of the 90 mediastinal masses, 49 (54%) were benign, including cases of thymic hyperplasia/thymic rebound (n = 10), mediastinitis (n = 16) and thymoma (n = 23). The remaining 41 (46%) lesions were classified as malignant, consisting of lymphoma (n = 28), mediastinal tumour (n = 4) and thymic carcinoma (n = 9). Significant differences were observed between benign and malignant mediastinal masses in all DECT-derived parameters (p ≤ .001) and 38 radiomic features (p ≤ .044) obtained from contrast-enhanced DECT. The combination of these methods achieved an area under the curve of .98 (95% CI, .893-1.000; p < .001) to differentiate between benign and malignant masses, with 100% sensitivity and 91% specificity. Throughout a follow-up of 1800 days, a multiparametric model incorporating radiomic features, DECT parameters and gender showed promising prognostic power in predicting all-cause mortality (c-index = .8 [95% CI, .702-.890], p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: A multiparametric approach combining radiomic features and DECT-derived imaging biomarkers allows for accurate and noninvasive differentiation between benign and malignant masses in the anterior mediastinum.

Unveiling the diagnostic enigma of D-dimer testing in cancer patients: Current evidence and areas of application.

BACKGROUND: Cancer is a well-known risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). A combined strategy of D-dimer testing and clinical pre-test probability is usually used to exclude VTE. However, its effectiveness is diminished in cancer patients due to reduced specificity, ultimately leading to a decreased clinical utility. This review article seeks to provide a comprehensive summary of how to interpret D-dimer testing in cancer patients. METHODS: In accordance with PRISMA standards, literature pertaining to the diagnostic and prognostic significance of D-dimer testing in cancer patients was carefully chosen from reputable sources such as PubMed and the Cochrane databases. RESULTS: D-dimers have not only a diagnostic value in ruling out VTE but can also serve as an aid for rule-in if their values exceed 10-times the upper limit of normal. This threshold allows a diagnosis of VTE in cancer patients with a positive predictive value of more than 80%. Moreover, elevated D-dimers carry important prognostic information and are associated with VTE reoccurrence. A gradual increase in risk for all-cause death suggests that VTE is also an indicator of biologically more aggressive cancer types and advanced cancer stages. Considering the lack of standardization for D-dimer assays, it is essential for clinicians to carefully consider the variations in assay performance and the specific test characteristics of their institution. CONCLUSIONS: Standardizing D-dimer assays and developing modified pretest probability models specifically for cancer patients, along with adjusted cut-off values for D-dimer testing, could significantly enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of VTE diagnosis in this population.

Multiparametric Evaluation of Radiomics Features and Dual-Energy CT Iodine Maps for Discrimination and Outcome Prediction of Thymic Masses.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: To investigate the diagnostic value of radiomics features and dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT) based material decomposition in differentiating low-risk thymomas, high-risk thymomas, and thymic carcinomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 32 patients (16 males, mean age 66 ± 14 years) with pathologically confirmed thymic masses who underwent contrast-enhanced DECT between 10/2014 and 01/2023. Two experienced readers evaluated all patients regarding conventional radiomics features, as well as DECT-based features, including attenuation (HU), iodine density (mg/mL), and fat fraction (%). Data comparisons were performed using analysis of variance and chi-square statistic tests. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Cox-regression tests were used to discriminate between low-risk/high-risk thymomas and thymic carcinomas. RESULTS: Of the 32 thymic tumors, 12 (38%) were low-risk thymomas, 11 (34%) were high-risk thymomas, and 9 (28%) were thymic carcinomas. Values differed significantly between low-risk thymoma, high-risk thymoma, and thymic carcinoma regarding DECT-based features (p ≤ 0.023) and 30 radiomics features (p ≤ 0.037). The area under the curve to differentiate between low-risk/high-risk thymomas and thymic cancer was 0.998 (95% CI, 0.915-1.000; p < 0.001) for the combination of DECT imaging parameters and radiomics features, yielding a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 96%. During a follow-up of 60 months (IQR, 35-60 months), the multiparametric approach including radiomics features, DECT parameters, and clinical parameters showed an excellent prognostic power to predict all-cause mortality (c-index = 0.978 [95% CI, 0.958-0.998], p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: A multiparametric approach including conventional radiomics features and DECT-based features facilitates accurate, non-invasive discrimination between low-risk/high-risk thymomas and thymic carcinomas.

Multiparametric detection and outcome prediction of pancreatic cancer involving dual-energy CT, diffusion-weighted MRI, and radiomics.

BACKGROUND: The advent of next-generation computed tomography (CT)- and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) opened many new perspectives in the evaluation of tumor characteristics. An increasing body of evidence suggests the incorporation of quantitative imaging biomarkers into clinical decision-making to provide mineable tissue information. The present study sought to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive value of a multiparametric approach involving radiomics texture analysis, dual-energy CT-derived iodine concentration (DECT-IC), and diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) in participants with histologically proven pancreatic cancer. METHODS: In this study, a total of 143 participants (63 years ± 13, 48 females) who underwent third-generation dual-source DECT and DWI between November 2014 and October 2022 were included. Among these, 83 received a final diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, 20 had pancreatitis, and 40 had no evidence of pancreatic pathologies. Data comparisons were performed using chi-square statistic tests, one-way ANOVA, or two-tailed Student's t-test. For the assessment of the association of texture features with overall survival, receiver operating characteristics analysis and Cox regression tests were used. RESULTS: Malignant pancreatic tissue differed significantly from normal or inflamed tissue regarding radiomics features (overall P < .001, respectively) and iodine uptake (overall P < .001, respectively). The performance for the distinction of malignant from normal or inflamed pancreatic tissue ranged between an AUC of ≥ 0.995 (95% CI, 0.955-1.0; P < .001) for radiomics features, ≥ 0.852 (95% CI, 0.767-0.914; P < .001) for DECT-IC, and ≥ 0.690 (95% CI, 0.587-0.780; P = .01) for DWI, respectively. During a follow-up of 14 ± 12 months (range, 10-44 months), the multiparametric approach showed a moderate prognostic power to predict all-cause mortality (c-index = 0.778 [95% CI, 0.697-0.864], P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: Our reported multiparametric approach allowed for accurate discrimination of pancreatic cancer and revealed great potential to provide independent prognostic information on all-cause mortality.

Standardizing lymphangiography and lymphatic interventions: a preclinical in vivo approach with detailed procedural steps.

PURPOSE: To present a preclinical in vivo approach for standardization and training of lymphangiography and lymphatic interventions using a pictorial review. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different lipiodol- and gadolinium-based lymphangiography and lymphatic interventions were performed in twelve (12) landrace pigs with a mean bodyweight of 34 ± 2 kg using various imaging and guiding modalities, similar to the procedures used in humans. The techniques used were explicitly introduced and illustrated. The potential applications of each technique in preclinical training were also discussed. RESULTS: By applying visual, ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, CT, cone-beam CT, and/or MRI examination or guidance, a total of eleven techniques were successfully implemented in twelve pigs. The presented techniques include inguinal postoperative lymphatic leakage (PLL) establishment, interstitial dye test, five types of lymphangiography [incl. lipiodol-based translymphatic lymphangiography (TL), lipiodol-based percutaneous intranodal lymphangiography (INL), lipiodol-based laparotomic INL, lipiodol-based interstitial lymphangiography, and interstitial magnetic resonance lymphangiography (MRL)], and four types of percutaneous interventions in the treatment of PLL [incl. thoracic duct embolization (TDE), intranodal embolization (INE), afferent lymphatic vessel sclerotherapy (ALVS), and afferent lymphatic vessel embolization (ALVE)]. CONCLUSION: This study provides a valuable resource for inexperienced interventional radiologists to undergo the preclinical training in lymphangiography and lymphatic interventions using healthy pig models.

Visibility of liquid embolic agents in fluoroscopy: a systematic in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular embolization using liquid embolic agents (LEAs) is frequently applied for the treatment of intracranial vascular malformations. Appropriate visibility of LEAs during embolization is essential for visual control and to prevent complications. Since LEAs contain different radiopaque components of varying concentrations, our aim was the systematic assessment of the visibility of the most used LEAs in fluoroscopy. METHODS: A specifically designed in vitro model, resembling cerebral vessels, was embolized with Onyx 18, Squid 18, Squid 12, PHIL (precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid) 25%, PHIL LV (low viscosity) and NBCA (n-butyl cyanoacrylate) mixed with iodized oil (n=3 for each LEA), as well as with contrast medium and saline, both serving as a reference. Fluoroscopic image acquisition was performed in accordance with clinical routine settings. Visibility was graded quantitatively (contrast to noise ratio, CNR) and qualitatively (five-point scale). RESULTS: Overall, all LEAs provided at least acceptable visibility in this in vitro model. Onyx and Squid as well as NBCA mixed with iodized oil were best visible at a comparable level and superior to the formulations of PHIL, which did not differ in quantitative and qualitative analyses (eg, Onyx 18 vs PHIL 25% along the 2.0 mm sector: mean CNR±SD: 3.02±0.42 vs 1.92±0.35; mean score±SD: 5.00±0.00 vs 3.75±0.45; p≤0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: In this systematic in vitro study, relevant differences in the fluoroscopic visibility of LEAs in neurointerventional embolization procedures were demonstrated, while all investigated LEAs provided acceptable visibility in our in vitro model.

Experimental investigation of transvenous embolization of arteriovenous malformations using different in vivo models.

BACKGROUND: Transvenous embolization (TVE) is an emerging technique for the endovascular treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The aim of this study was to investigate two in vivo AVM models and to assess TVE techniques using these models. METHODS: Blood flow in the porcine rete mirabile (RM) was modified by either creating a carotid-jugular fistula or by placing a balloon guide catheter in the carotid artery. The RM was embolized with precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid (PHIL) 25% via transarterial embolization (TAE; control group) and compared with TVE applying the transvenous retrograde pressure cooker technique and TVE using a Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device for flow control (n=6, respectively). The embolization extent (penetration of the RM), the number of events of reflux or embolization distal to the RM and the procedure times were assessed. RESULTS: The modified RM could be successfully used for embolization in all cases. There were no significant differences regarding the outcome parameters between the two AVM models (fistula or balloon). TVE using the pressure cooker technique led to a higher extent of embolization (median 98.8% vs 63.5%; p=0.008), a lower number of reflux or distal embolization events (p<0.001) and a shorter procedure time (p<0.001) compared with conventional TAE. TVE using a WEB device for flow control was technically feasible and achieved a moderate extent of embolization (median 83.8%). CONCLUSION: After surgical or endovascular modification, the porcine RM is a feasible in vivo AVM model for the investigation of TVE techniques. TVE using the pressure cooker technique is superior to conventional TAE in this experimental model.

Proposal of an algorithm for the management of rectally inserted foreign bodies: a surgical single-center experience with review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Retained rectal foreign bodies (RFBs) are uncommon clinical findings. Although the management of RFBs is rarely reported in the literature, clinicians regularly face this issue. To date, there is no standardized management of RFBs. The aim of the present study was to evaluate our own data and subsequently develop a treatment algorithm. METHODS: All consecutive patients who presented between January 2006 and December 2019 with rectally inserted RFBs at the emergency department of the Klinikum Stuttgart, Germany, were retrospectively identified. Clinicopathologic features, management, complications, and outcomes were assessed. Based on this experience, a treatment algorithm was developed. RESULTS: A total of 69 presentations with rectally inserted RFBs were documented in 57 patients. In 23/69 cases (33.3%), the RFB was removed transanally by the emergency physician either digitally (n = 14) or with the help of a rigid rectoscope (n = 8) or a colonoscope (n = 1). In 46/69 cases (66.7%), the RFB was removed in the operation theater under general anesthesia with muscle relaxation. Among these, 11/46 patients (23.9%) underwent abdominal surgery, either for manual extraction of the RFB (n = 9) or to exclude a bowel perforation (n = 2). Surgical complications occurred in 3/11 patients. One patient with rectal perforation developed pelvic sepsis and underwent abdominoperineal extirpation in the further clinical course. CONCLUSION: The management of RFBs can be challenging and includes a wide range of options from removal without further intervention to abdominoperineal extirpation in cases of pelvic sepsis. Whenever possible, RFBs should obligatorily be managed in specialized colorectal centers following a clear treatment algorithm.

Lung Opacity and Coronary Artery Calcium Score: A Combined Tool for Risk Stratification and Outcome Prediction in COVID-19 Patients.

PURPOSE: To assess and correlate pulmonary involvement and outcome of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia with the degree of coronary plaque burden based on the CAC-DRS classification (Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System). METHODS: This retrospective study included 142 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia (58 ± 16 years; 57 women) who underwent non-contrast CT between January 2020 and August 2021 and were followed up for 129 ± 72 days. One experienced blinded radiologist analyzed CT series for the presence and extent of calcified plaque burden according to the visual and quantitative HU-based CAC-DRS Score. Pulmonary involvement was automatically evaluated with a dedicated software prototype by another two experienced radiologists and expressed as Opacity Score. RESULTS: CAC-DRS Scores derived from visual and quantitative image evaluation correlated well with the Opacity Score (r=0.81, 95% CI 0.76-0.86, and r=0.83, 95% CI 0.77-0.89, respectively; p<0.0001) with higher correlation in severe than in mild stage SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia (p<0.0001). Combined, CAC-DRS and Opacity Scores revealed great potential to discriminate fatal outcomes from a mild course of disease (AUC 0.938, 95% CI 0.89-0.97), and the need for intensive care treatment (AUC 0.801, 95% CI 0.77-0.83). Visual and quantitative CAC-DRS Scores provided independent prognostic information on all-cause mortality (p=0.0016 and p<0.0001, respectively), both in univariate and multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Coronary plaque burden is strongly correlated to pulmonary involvement, adverse outcome, and death due to respiratory failure in patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, offering great potential to identify individuals at high risk.

Treatment of Postoperative Lymphatic Leakage Applying Transpedal Lymphangiography - Experience in 355 Consecutive Patients.

PURPOSE: Report of experience from a single institution in treating postoperative lymphatic leakage (PLL) applying conventional transpedal lymphangiography (TL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 453 patients with the initial diagnosis of PLL receiving TL between 03/1993 and 09/2018 were identified in the database. Only patients with confirmed PLL were included in the study. The technical success, safety, and treatment success of TL were evaluated. Independent predictors of TL treatment failure were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: 355 consecutive patients (218 men, 137 women; median age of 62 years) who underwent TL for PLL (e. g., chylothorax) after ineffective conservative treatment were included. The median time between causal surgery and TL was 27 days. The median technical success rate of TL was 88.5 %, with a median volume of Lipiodol of 10.0 ml. No complication of TL was recorded. Three groups were defined according to the different clinical courses: group A (41/355, 11.5 %) - TL with technical failure; group B (258/355, 72.7 %) - "therapeutic" TL alone with technical success; and group C (56/355, 15.8 %) - "diagnostic" TL with simultaneously invasive treatment (incl. surgical revision and percutaneous sclerotherapy). Treatment success rate and median time to treatment success were higher in group C than in group B, but without significant differences (64.3 % vs. 61.6 %, p = 0.710; six vs. five days, p = 0.065). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses for group B confirmed drainage volume (> 500 ml/d) and Lipiodol extravasation as independent predictors of TL clinical failure (odds ratios [ORs] of 2.128 and 2.372 [p = 0.005 and p = 0.003, respectively]). CONCLUSION: TL is technically reliable, safe, and effective in treating PLL. When conservative treatment fails, TL can be regarded as the next treatment option. KEY POINTS: · TL is technically reliable, safe, and effective for treating PLL.. · When conservative treatment fails, TL can be regarded as the next treatment option.. · Drainage volume > 500 ml/day is an independent predictor of clinical failure after TL.. · Lipiodol extravasation is an independent predictor of clinical failure after TL.. CITATION FORMAT: · Pan F, Richter GM, Do TD et al. Treatment of Postoperative Lymphatic Leakage Applying Transpedal Lymphangiography - Experience in 355 Consecutive Patients. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2022; 194: 634 - 643.

Low efficiency of leucocyte plugging-based drug delivery to cancer in mice.

Cells of the immune system were proposed for use as Trojan horse for tumour-specific drug delivery. The efficacy of such cell-based drug delivery depends on the site-specific cell homing. This present study was aimed to investigate the potential of leucocytes for intratumoural site-specific enrichment using a locoregional application route in experimental liver tumours. Human neutrophils were isolated from peripheral blood and directly labelled with calcein AM or loaded with doxorubicin. The neutrophil loading and release of doxorubicin and the migration and adhesion to ICAM-1 were analysed in vitro. Macrophages were isolated and activated in vitro. Leucocyte plugging and the distribution pattern in the liver microvasculature were studied ex vivo, and the efficacy of leucocyte plugging in tumour blood vessels was analysed in vivo after superselective intra-arterial injection in mouse liver tumour models. Neutrophils were characterised by the high dose-dependent uptake and rapid release of doxorubicin. Doxorubicin loading did not affect neutrophil migration function. Neutrophil plugging in liver microvasculature was very high (> 90%), both after ex vivo perfusion and after injection in vivo. However, neutrophils as well as activated macrophages plugged insufficiently in tumour blood vessels and passed through the tumour microvasculture with a very low sequestration rate in vivo. Neutrophils possess several properties to function as potentially effective drug carriers; however, the tumour site-specific drug delivery after selective locoregional injection was observed to be insufficient owing to low intratumoural microvascular plugging.

Therapeutic lymphography for persistent chyle leak after pancreatic surgery.

BACKGROUND: Chyle leak is a common complication following pancreatic surgery. After failure of conservative treatment, lymphography is one of the last therapeutic options. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether lymphography represents an effective treatment for severe chyle leak (International study Group on Pancreatic Surgery, grade C) after pancreatic surgery. METHODS: Patients with grade C chyle leak after pancreatic surgery who received transpedal or transnodal therapeutic lymphography between 2010 and 2020 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Clinical success of the lymphography was evaluated according to percent decrease of drainage output after lymphography (>50% decrease = partial success; >85% decrease = complete success). RESULTS: Of the 48 patients undergoing lymphography, 23 had a clinically successful lymphography: 14 (29%) showed partial and 9 (19%) complete success. In 25 cases (52%) lymphography did not lead to a significant reduction of chyle leak. Successful lymphography was associated with earlier drain removal and hospital discharge [complete clinical success: 7.1 days (±4.1); partial clinical success: 12 days (±9.1), clinical failure: 19 days (±19) after lymphography; p = 0.006]. No serious adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION: Therapeutic lymphography is a feasible, safe, and effective option for treating grade C chyle leak after pancreatic surgery.

The impact of software-based metal artifact reduction on the liquid embolic agent Onyx in cone-beam CT: a systematic in vitro and in vivo study.

BACKGROUND: Onyx is frequently used for endovascular embolization of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs). One drawback of using Onyx is the generation of artifacts in cone-beam CT (CBCT). These artifacts can represent an obstacle for the detection of periprocedural hemorrhage or planning of subsequent radiosurgery. This study investigates the effect of artifact reduction by the syngo DynaCT SMART Metal Artifact Reduction (MAR) software. METHODS: A standardized in vitro tube model (n=10) was filled with Onyx 18 and CBCT image acquisition was conducted in a brain imaging phantom. Furthermore, post-interventional CBCT images of 20 patients with AVM (n=13) or dAVF (n=7), each treated with Onyx, were investigated. The MAR software was applied for artifact reduction. Artifacts of the original and the post-processed images were analyzed quantitatively (standard deviation in a region of interest on the layer providing the most artifacts) and qualitatively. For the patient images, the effect of the MAR software on brain parenchyma on artifact-free images was further investigated. RESULTS: Quantitative and qualitative analyses of both datasets demonstrated a lower degree of artifacts in the post-processed images (eg, patient images: 38.30±22.03 density units (no MAR; mean SD±SD) vs 19.83±12.31 density units (with MAR; p<0.001). The MAR software had no influence on the brain parenchyma in artifact-free images. CONCLUSION: The MAR software significantly reduced the artifacts evoked by Onyx in CBCT without affecting the visualization of brain parenchyma on artifact-free images. Applying this software could thus improve the quality of periprocedural CBCT images after embolization with Onyx.

Open irreversible electroporation for isolated local recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma after primary surgery.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is an emerging treatment for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) which in some cohorts has been associated with severe complications. Additionally, re-resection of isolated local recurrence (ILR) after pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) can improve survival. We investigated safety, feasibility and oncologic outcomes in the first report on open IRE for unresectable ILR of PDAC in a staged surgical approach. METHODS: Records of the prospectively documented institutional database were screened for patients undergoing laparotomy in IRE-standby due to questionable resectability. Endpoints were morbidity, mortality and overall (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). Data of LAPC and ILR were compared statistically for safety and feasibility analysis. RESULTS: Intraoperative IRE was performed in 11 ILR and 14 LAPC. Six (54.5%) ILR and 10 (71.4%) LAPC patients had postoperative complications, type and frequency did not differ significantly. Major complications occurred in one ILR and two LAPC patients. Median OS was 20.0 months (95% CI: 2.7-37.3) after IRE for ILR and 28 (17.4-38.6) for LAPC. Median PFS after IRE was seven months for both ILR (4.1-9.9; n = 9) and LAPC (2.3-11.7; n = 13). CONCLUSION: Open IRE for unresectable ILR was associated with acceptable perioperative risk. In this small, highly selected subset of patients with limited therapeutic options ancillary treatment with IRE might improve survival. Randomized treatment studies are required to establish the definitive role of IRE as compared to palliative standards of care in unresectable recurrence of PDAC and inconvertible LAPC.